While penalties for drug possession have been relaxed in various jurisdictions across the nation, Indiana still treats drug crimes, particularly the sale and distribution of narcotics, as serious offenses that carry long-term implications. If you’re facing any type of drug offense in Indiana, you need to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible in order to minimize the risk of facing jail time, tens of thousands of dollars in fines, the loss of financial aid or other government assistance, and more.
What is a Felony Drug Crime in Indiana?
While drug offenses in general are serious matters in Indiana, felony drug crimes up the ante even more, and those accused of felony drug crimes often face severe consequences and penalties. As per Indiana Code 35-48-4-1, felony drug crimes usually involve the sale and distribution of narcotics, although prosecutors can use a bevy of “enhancing circumstances” to upgrade possession charges to felony drug crimes in some cases.
Drug laws in Indiana are complicated affairs. Below you’ll find a general rundown of the penalties associated with different felony drug crime levels. Do note that each case is different and additional circumstances can upgrade a felony drug crime to a “higher,” more penalizing tier.
Level 6 Felony – Prison sentence ranging from 6 months to 2.5 years, generally involves possession of a narcotic or sale of marijuana while having previous convictions
Level 5 Felony – Prison sentence ranging from 1 year to 6 years, involves the sale and distribution of narcotics involving less than 1 gram (or more than 10 lbs of marijuana)
Level 4 Felony - Prison sentence ranging from 2 to 12 years, involves the sale and distribution of narcotics between 1 and 5 grams
Level 3 Felony - Prison sentence ranging from 3 to 16 years, involves the sale and distribution of narcotics between 5 and 10 grams
Level 2 Felony - Prison sentence ranging from 10 to 30 years, involves the sale and distribution of narcotics weighting at minimum 10 grams or more
Speak to a Reputable Indiana Criminal Defense Attorney
Are you or a loved one facing felony drug charges, or any other type of criminal offense in Indiana? Do not roll the dice with your future and schedule an appointment with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Call Attorney David Phillips or fill out our “contact us” page to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how he can provide the legal assistance that you need. 219-929-7060.